Make No Exceptions
The Aston Martin Rapide S is functional performance at its luxurious best, living up to its moniker of the world’s most beautiful four-door sports car
If we were to model our lives after British secret agent James Bond’s, living life in the fast lane could mean that driving a car with more than two doors and less than 12 cylinders under the bonnet is settling for something markedly less than the pinnacle of motoring. And if life is all about living it to the fullest, why settle for anything less? Cue the Aston Martin Rapide S, the British supercar maker’s largest offering, perfectly suited for drivers looking for top-of-the-range performance and individuality, coupled with practicality.
Pace With Grace
Epitomising the spirit of grand touring and characterised by comfort, style and performance, the Aston Martin Rapide S has been developed as a gorgeous example of British dynamism and rebellion. From the moment you lay eyes on that assertive front fascia, you will notice the athleticism, elegance and poise that the car possesses in abundance. Four doors and rear seating offer the opportunity to share in the joys that open-road touring presents. But its size does not point at any compromise. To dispel potential doubts about its abilities, engineers at Aston Martin have reworked the naturally aspirated 6.0L V12 engine to include race-derived technology from the marque’s race teams. The result is a heart that has been machined with lightweight high-performance internals. Primed to soul-stirring proportions, the engine delivers 552bhp and 630Nm of torque to make the century sprint in a furious 4.4sec and achieve a top speed of 327km/h. Paired with a highly advanced eight-speed Touchtronic III automatic transmission and an optimised chassis, power gets delivered to the rear wheels with the same explosive grace, assuredness and agility of a leopard on the hunt, complete with a wondrously deep howl characteristic of a high-revving V12 engine. While this will thrill the driver, occupants will find delight at just how stable the ride is. The front and rear independent double wishbones adaptive damping system not only helps it stay planted during corners, it also soaks up any imperfections and noise from the roads so occupants get to luxuriate in the first-class cabin that is a blend of sportiness and refinement. Befitting a car this special, the details within the cabin such as the optional perforated duotone red and black leather seats have been diligently crafted by hand. Discerning customers keen on bespoke options will be able to tap their creativity and show off their personal tastes through the brand’s Q service.